MONSTA X's Japan concerts in April 2023 featured powerful performances, fan interactions, and heartfelt messages, celebrating their 10th anniversary.
May/5/2026 13:16
The Japan performances of '2026 MONSTA X WORLD TOUR 『THE X: NEXUS』', which started with the Seoul performance in January this year, were held. This world tour, which has excited various Asian countries, had a total of four performances at LaLa arena TOKYO-BAY in Chiba on April 28 and 29, and at the Osaka Ohkin Arena Maishima on May 3 and 4. MONSTA X, who celebrated their 10th anniversary last year and has deepened their artistry, showcased overwhelming performances on the Japanese stage. Here, we report on the Chiba performance on April 29. As the words 'NEXUS' appeared on the huge screen at the venue, the members dressed in white jackets made their entrance. The concert opened with 'DRAMARAMA', eliciting loud cheers from the eagerly awaiting audience. They followed with 'Love Killa' and 'Rush Hour', and the atmosphere was heightened with silver tape and confetti. After changing into leather jackets on stage, they shook the venue with energetic songs like 'LONE RANGER' and 'Catch Me Now'. Transitioning from intense performances, they greeted the audience in Japanese with 'Hello! How are you all?' Ki-hyun humorously quoted a trendy phrase, prompting playful banter from the members. Shownu called out, 'It's been 8 months since we returned to Japan after last year's 10th anniversary concert 'CONNECT X'. Welcome back!' to which the audience responded with 'Welcome back!' Ju-hon, observing the many fans dressed in pink, remarked, 'It feels like being in a flower garden', showcasing the members' charm and creating a fun atmosphere. Hyun-won expressed a desire to show a 'slightly sexy stage', leading into a more mature section. Dressed in white shirts, they sang 'MIDDLE OF THE NIGHT' softly and showcased beautiful vocals with the poignant melody of 'AND'. Blue and purple lasers intertwined, dramatically illuminating the stage. They continued with 'Do What I Want', 'N the Front', and 'Tuscan Leather' from their mini-album 'THE X', captivating the audience with addictive songs featuring strong beats. Each member's individuality shone through in their solo stages, displaying diverse musicality. Shownu danced to 'Around & Go' with backup dancers, attracting the audience with adult charm and strength. Ki-hyun followed with a powerful and emotional performance of 'Howling'. Hyun-won showcased a breathtakingly sexy dance with 'NO AIR', while Min-hyuk played guitar and sang 'Reaching' refreshingly, filling the venue with a cool atmosphere. Ju-hon's performance was a highlight, delivering intense rap from his latest solo mini-album '光: INSANITY' with 'STING' and 'Touch the sky', igniting the audience's energy to its peak. The concert concluded with powerful performances of 'Beautiful Liar', 'Alligator', and 'Shoot Out', showcasing MONSTA X's essence. During the encore, members surprised fans by changing into T-shirts and interacting directly with them. As they returned to the stage for 'Rodeo', the intense EDM sound energized the crowd, creating a dance floor atmosphere. Min-hyuk exclaimed, 'Monbebe! You're amazing today!' When the audience called for 'Hanbond (once more)!', Ki-hyun suggested performing 'SPOTLIGHT' acapella. With Ju-hon's beatboxing, they beautifully performed the song in Japanese, creating a joyful unity with the fans. In the final MC, members expressed heartfelt gratitude in both Korean and Japanese. Ki-hyun said, 'I want to keep meeting you all. Thank you for today from start to finish. I really love you.' Min-hyuk commented, 'You all sent us perfect support today. Thank you.' Hyun-won expressed a desire to give fans strength when they come to see them again, while Shownu thanked them for their warmth, promising to return in good form. Ju-hon wished to give 100% energy and love to fans, saying he loves them from the bottom of his heart. The encore concluded with 'Stand Up' and 'Fire & Ice', wrapping up the finale refreshingly. The members bowed together at the end, saying 'Thank you' and 'See you again' as they left the stage. MONSTA X demonstrated overwhelming presence with their evolving musicality and mature, energetic performances, continuing to rise after surpassing the milestone of 10 years. In April, they released a new album 'Unfold' in America, continuing their global activities. Their future endeavors are highly anticipated.
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